In this episode, we chat with the incredible Maria Zieja, ultra-runner and long-time member of the Sassquad Trail Running family. Maria takes us through her journey from obstacle course racing to trail and ultra-running. She shares squatchtastic stories from the 36-hour event at the Wild Goose Trail Festival, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at the highs, the lows, and the strategies that kept her moving… Spoiler: it’s all about determination and a little bit of trail

After 15 years in the classroom and a master’s degree in education, she found herself burnt out and searching for a new path. Maria shares about how she took the leap to leave the traditional classroom behind and became a certified nature-based educator. Now, she spends her days inspiring kids to learn and grow outside at Sensory Garden and Play in West Milford, NJ. With her Level 1 certification from the Association for Nature-Based Education (and Level 2 on the way), Maria is on a mission to turn nature into the ultimate classroom.

Maria’s passion for the outdoors is contagious as she talks about the magic that happens when kids get outside every day. From building confidence to boosting creativity, she’s seen firsthand how nature can transform young lives.

Want to learn more about the amazing work Maria is doing? Check out Sensory Garden and Play.